If you’re looking for a delicious and comforting dish that’s also easy to prepare, look no further than this Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with a luscious sauce made from fresh spinach, earthy mushrooms, and rich Parmesan cheese. The creaminess of the sauce pairs perfectly with the savory chicken, making it a dish that will please both your family and guests. Not only is this recipe straightforward and quick to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavors that meld together beautifully, ensuring that every bite is a delight. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad to make a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken and ensure that it is well-seasoned throughout.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Cook the Mushrooms:
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are tender and have started to brown. The mushrooms will release their moisture during this process, which will then evaporate, allowing them to brown nicely.
- Wilt the Spinach:
- Stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spinach is wilted and well combined with the mushrooms and onions.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens, about 3-4 minutes. The cheese will melt and help to thicken the sauce, creating a rich and creamy consistency.
- Combine and Heat Through:
- Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Spoon some of the sauce over the top of the chicken to ensure it is well coated.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and fully coated in the sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the chicken breasts to serving plates and spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor.
Serving:
This Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is best served hot. Pair it with your favorite side dishes to create a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Pasta: Serve over a bed of pasta such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Rice: A side of steamed rice or a flavorful rice pilaf complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Vegetables: For a lighter option, serve with a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy chicken dish.
Notes:
- Chicken Variations: You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you find that the sauce is too thin, you can let it simmer for a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce to thicken it.
- Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes, to enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen spinach if you don’t have fresh spinach on hand. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the skillet.
Q: Can I substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream? A: While heavy cream provides the richest and creamiest texture, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook the chicken and make the sauce, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce in a skillet and add the chicken to warm through.
Q: What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese? A: If you don’t have Parmesan cheese, you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as substitutes. These cheeses have a similar texture and flavor profile.
Q: Can I add other herbs to the sauce? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as basil, thyme, or rosemary to customize the flavor of the sauce to your liking.
Enjoy your Chicken with Spinach and Mushrooms in Creamy Parmesan Sauce, a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!